foundation for sustainable development

argentina community development

is a culturally rich country with an extremely educated population, abundant natural resources, and a growing economy. However the country is still drastically divided by a gap between the rich and poor, unresolved national human rights violations, a recent economic crisis, constant political instability, and unenforceable laws and legislation. The most unique condition of Argentinas recent economic crisis is that it created a new kind of poor a highly educated middle class that lost its privilege and was forced to live with a greatly reduced quality of life. This new poor amplified the presence of social movements and political expression. With masses of Argentines coming together to find solutions on their own, the country is growing into a rich resource for nonprofit development and grass roots movements. FSD is working with many of these NGOs to confront community issues and aggregate resources that empower and give rise to sustainable solutions. Making use of cultural centers for development activities, utilizing radio to mobilize action, supporting job skills programs, empowering youth to become community leaders, and providing food programs for struggling families are ways that FSD supports growing communities in the La Plata region. It is an exciting time to engage in Argentinas redevelopment and take part in a community movement that offers hope for a better nation in the new century.

Argentina

Internship/Volunteer opportunities in community development in Argentina include:

Assist a (university) student and faculty-run radio station that works with groups as diverse as children from local shelters, to adults who attend a night school in poorer sections of La Plata. Create radio production workshops that identify community issues and facilitate knowledge exchange to raise self-esteem and capacity building. Give youth in marginalized neighborhoods a chance to express opinions regarding local issues. Work with a program that provides meals for impoverished families. Bread-making, computer science, and adult education courses are also offered to help the families gain useful skills. Support the local cultural center by hosting community events, workshops, conferences, expositions, and/or book presentations by local authors. Teach capacity building courses in a wide variety of subjects such as piano, sewing, craftwork, theatre, small farming techniques, and English. Expand the community library and resources offered to the community. Work with an organization that provides resources for over 58 local food kitchens to confront malnutrition, particularly with children. Connect agriculture producers, schools, and dining halls to feed those in need. Get involved with an organizations many community empowerment objectives which include: promoting social, political, and scientific research; offering professional assistance to popular organizations; teaching courses that empower youth groups; and supporting publications that enhance community development.

For more opportunities in community development in Argentina, visit our website or contact us directly.
Email: info@fsdinternational.org

Phone: (415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

foundation for sustainable development

argentina

environment

Photo by Dag Peak

Environmental

issues in Argentina are typical of those of most developing nations: water, air quality, deforestation, and soil degradation. Many nongovernmental and governmental agencies work towards research and policy making that address pressing threats to the preservation of Argentinas wondrous natural landscapes, forests, and farmlands. Experts agree that it isnt the laws that are deficient in Argentina; rather it is repeated failures to enforce current laws. With the added internal conflict of the 2001 economic crisis, the struggle to balance economic growth and environmental preservation is a major challenge. The environmental, social, and health of costs of these habits are not being computed into Argentinas economic formula. In order to create enforceable policies, research must be done and the public must be educated. FSD interns in Argentina have the opportunity to conduct vital research that informs many projects initiated by FSD host organizations (specifically research in public transportation, public awareness campaigns, national and international environmental law policies, and air emissions cataloguing). Other interns and volunteers support the implementation of project work that is fed by critical research. These various projects lay the foundation for any type of hope for future policy changes and their enforcement, making skilled interns and volunteers an absolute necessity for the environmental sustainability of Argentina.

Internship/Volunteer opportunities in environment in Argentina include:

Support the creation of workshops, community events, seminars, and campaigns that address subjects ranging from local ecological awareness to environmental issues related to unique regions such as Tierra del Fuego and Patagonia. Develop a biodiesel production project at an agricultural school and teach students/staff how biodiesel can cost-effectively support energy needs. Enhance an FSD project to complete an inventory of local greenhouse gas emissions to design and implement a plan of action. Comprehensively research both governmental and non-governmental environmental agencies and their projects. Research is used to expand communication between the agencies and create a network in which they can exchange experiences, knowledge, and support each others ongoing projects/programs. Assist with the preservation and sustainable use of land throughout Argentina via projects such as: cooperating with the local Department of Agriculture to recover traditional crops; supporting regional biodiversity and assistance of local farmers; preserving trails and routes used by hikers and bicyclists; organizing local events that support traditional, local agriculture, such as the annual tomato festival; converting retired railroad lines into biodiversity zones; and/or promoting organizational activities to environmental journalists and at national summits.

For more opportunities in environment in Argentina, visit our website or contact us directly.

Phone: (415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

Email: info@fsdinternational.org

foundation for sustainable development

argentina

health

Argentinas

recent economic crisis aggravated the already deficient health care system. There has been a deterioration in the funding of both private and public health care programs, a rise in the cost of imported medications as a result of currency devaluation, and an increase in the demand for public hospital services. Many could not afford medical care after the economic crash. Reports show that there has been a reduced frequency in which poorer Argentineans take their children in for medical visits. In addition, changes in the mental and emotional status of individuals are being observed with a higher percentage of surveyed households reporting that they feel discouraged or without hope for the future. Mental illnesses are already recording exponential growth in the number of emergency consultations, while suicide appears to be increasing among adolescents. Since the quality of care and service provided by the public and private sector has worsened due to lack of funds, the need for alternative social health programs is in high demand. Community education and awareness, as well as the establishment of mental health support groups are essential steps in order to promote preventative healthcare, and to create a sane, healthy, and productive population. This demand for community social health programs is one in which FSD host organizations directly address by enacting local health initiatives that reach the people who are in greatest need.

Internship/Volunteer opportunities in Health in Argentina include:

Assist in a variety of projects combating HIV/AIDS. These include: nutrition and dietary support for patients suffering from the virus; prevention and awareness through cultural activities for students and adults (concerts, etc); training of health care professionals; and assistance/moral support for children of AIDS sufferers. Work in a public health center offering basic health services to vulnerable populations. Support an organization that provides psychological and social services for victims of trauma related to major health issues, family deaths, and/or abuses. Activities include: medical and therapeutic assistance; training for people who are reintegrating into society; preparation before, during, and after surgery for patients suffering from cancer; and treatment for bipolar patients as well as their families. Support public campaigns for the prevention of addictions, HIV, and child malnourishment. Conduct public health surveys for a hospital that offers therapy, treatment, and rehabilitation services to individuals who suffer from drug-dependency and alcoholism. Offer outreach strategies that generate awareness of programs and get citizens into treatment.

For more opportunities in Health in Argentina, visit our website or contact us directly

Phone: (415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

Email: info@fsdinternational.org

foundation for sustainable development

argentina

human rights

important and debated topics in Argentina today. In 2006, Argentina will mark the thirtieth anniversary of the 1976 military coup which lasted until 1983. This seven year period saw an estimated 30,000 civilians disappear and many thousands more subjected to atrocious human rights violations notably kidnap and torture. During the time that this all took place, few dared to speak out with the exception of the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo. Until very recently this group held vigils to demand recognition of the crimes. Currently, both the Argentine government is beginning to show sympathy for the human rights violations of the seventies and eighties. President Kirchner recently promised to bring the perpetrators to justice. In 2003 the congress rolled back measures taken in the late eighties and nineties by previous Argentine administrations to pardon former military officials that were guilty of human rights abuses during the dictatorship. In 2005 these were overturned by a Supreme Court ruling, opening the way to detention and prosecution of suspects. Until Argentina takes the steps necessary to put to justice those guilty of the kidnappings, tortures, and murders, its people will not be able to heal the open wounds that they have been suffering from during the last thirty years. FSD has many partner organizations that work directly towards the accountability and reconciliation of the human rights violations that took place during the dictatorship. It is an ideal place to observe and participate in the implementation of human rights law enforcement and reconciliation.

The subject of human rights is without a doubt one of most

Internship/Volunteer opportunities in human rights in Argentina include:

Give counsel to individuals whose rights were violated following judgments during the era of the dictatorship. Support legal action against ex-leaders with impunity. Provide legal counseling to vulnerable families whose children work in the streets and for people whove suffered intra-familial violence and sexual abuse. Offer workshops on human rights issues at schools; promote rights through community activities such as lectures and concerts; and/or participate in a weekly radio program discussing related issues. Develop content for an organizations newspaper, radio program and/or webpage to further the protection of human rights in the local region. Teach children and adolescents about citizen rights, the constitution, and principles of living in a democracy. Provide a forum for the students to express their ideas, opinions, and concerns related to pressing social issues. Assist programs that provide for the special needs of handicapped and underserved individuals. These include a national campaign for societal awareness regarding marginalization and disabilities. The campaign also assigns adapted wheelchairs and other needed articles that assist the daily lives of disabled persons.

For more opportunities in human rights in Argentina, visit our website or contact us directly.

Phone: (415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

Email: info@fsdinternational.org

foundation for sustainable development

argentina

micro-enterprise

with soaring growth due to international investment usage that would prove fruitful for the short term. By the end of the decade, the Menem administration had instituted structural adjustment policies that eventually plummeted the economy. By 2001, the economy deteriorated so badly that the country suffered an absolute meltdown, with industrial infrastructure and agricultural markets on their knees, minimal social and public services available, and aggressive privatization that resulted in many Argentines unable to afford basic needs such as water. More than 50 percent of the country lived below the poverty line an astonishing statistic considering the apparent wealth of nation. After two years of desperation, Argentina is beginning to stabilize its debt, reinvest into infrastructure, and boost agriculture profits. The growth is built upon incredible grassroots movements and leadership efforts that are producing jobs throughout many sectors. GDP has been growing exponentially. Despite all of this, there is still much room for improvement with Argentinas economic situation. A large population of the country could greatly benefit from increased financial opportunities. FSD partners with organizations that provide economic opportunity to underserved populations. Volunteers and interns contribute in the areas of mentoring cooperative members, teaching capacity building courses, bringing organizational skills, and networking/researching other local foundations for information sharing. These practices are showing strongly positive results and are in great need by local organizations.

The 1990s were an economic roller coaster for Argentina,

Internship/Volunteer opportunities in micro-enterprise in Argentina include:

Expand an FSD Eco-Tourism Project by holding educational meetings and distributing information regarding ecotourism possibilities for local agencies and interested community members. The aim is to increase vendor and consumer awareness, thus ensuring a more sustainable use of Argentinas vast natural resources and the reduction of environmental impact due to tourism. Provide consulting for an organization to more effectively manage and administer financial resources. Support a cooperative small business formed to support marginalized families. The co-op offers personnel for cleaning, but is expanding to masonry work, gardening, painting, plumbing, and electrical work through the help of future volunteers and interns. Support an organizations capacity building activities by providing at-risk youth and uneducated persons with resources and guidance to integrate with the working community and find employment. Assist trainings that inform adults about various micro business strategies and micro-credit opportunities. Work to improve production techniques for small and medium enterprises that support unemployed women and youth. For example, FSD volunteers and interns have assisted production and/or marketing of fruits and vegetables dehydrated by solar and Eolic energy. The programs aim to reduce poverty and unemployment.

For more opportunities in micro-enterprise in Argentina, visit our website or contact us directly.
Email: info@fsdinternational.org

Phone: (415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

foundation for sustainable development

argentina

womens empowerment

Argentina has a history of female leaders, as well as internationally recognized images that symbolize the heavy participation of women in the political, social, and domestic fields. These range from the beloved Eva Peron, the most remembered and influential Argentine First Lady, to the more recent Madres de la Plaza de Mayo a weekly reunion of hundreds of mothers who protest against the unaccountable disappearances and murders of their children during the dirty war. However, despite their inclusion in politics and business, Argentinean women are still shadowed by the historically traditional, Catholic influence and machismo culture. The rise of social movements resulting from the peoples protest against the harsh conditions of the 2001 economic crisis and the dirty war, contributed to the rise of solidarity between women. With the disappearances of thousands of men, women stepped up in response and defended their families. Similarly, the loss of income due to the 2001 crisis required both men and women to contribute to the family resources. Both these factors motivated women to take leadership roles in many of the grassroots movements igniting throughout the country. FSD seeks to promote this coalition and solidarity movement of women by giving these groups the resources and skills they need to exponentially grow. Most womens groups need capacity building activities, organization assistance, technical assistance, aid in promotion and marketing, and encouragement through solidarity with international womens support mechanisms.

Internship/Volunteer opportunities in womens empowerment in Argentina include:

Offer trainings and workshops to marginalized women so that they may successfully integrate with the working community and find steady employment. Assist teaching of handicraft skills to unemployed women for the production of popular goods sold in local markets. Continue an FSD project that offers bread-making training to the directors and cooks of local shelters, as well as to local unemployed women who in turn receive government aid for their community service. Pizzas, desserts, and jams are made to sell at local markets and to feed participant families. Support trainings that provide mothers with appropriate child raising techniques and how to address the legal conflicts that these children frequently encounter. Offer legal counsel and emotional support for women suffering from intra-familial abuse and mistreatment. Continue an FSD sewing project for mothers to learn a marketable trade, produce towels, curtains, and aprons for sale, and clothe their families. Assist in the development and implementation of workshops that educate vulnerable adolescents and women about violence prevention.

For more opportunities in womens empowerment in Argentina, visit our website or contact us directly.

Phone: (415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

Email: info@fsdinternational.org

foundation for sustainable development

argentina

youth and education

Photo by Kathryn Klaas

rate - ninety seven percent - there is still a serious deficiency in educational support for marginalized children. After the economic crisis, those living at the bottom of the economic ladder ended up in poverty creating a significantly larger percentage of children with inadequate living conditions and a need for greater educational support. There is a growing demand for tutor programs, community libraries, and supplemental educational programs in the arts, health, hygiene, physical activity, sex education, and peer mentorship. Many children are also in need of emotional guidance as they struggle to adjust to a life that was foreign to them before the crisis. This includes help in dealing with the pressures of drugs and alcohol. The creation of community youth centers is an essential tool that can create community support, and divert Argentinean youth from substance abuse. NGOs working with youth and education projects are always looking for positive examples for Argentina marginalized youth a role that many interns and volunteers provide. Also, the food kitchens and shelters which have become the jewels of the La Plata community are in constant need of manpower in order to continue providing essential services to the children. FSD interns in Argentina can play an important role in creating a brighter future for Argentinean children.

Although Argentina has an extremely high literacy

Internship/Volunteer opportunities in youth and education in Argentina include:

Work in a daycare center that provides meals, counseling, tutoring, English classes, arts & crafts, cooking courses, and computer science classes for vulnerable children and their mothers. Develop an athletic education program for vulnerable children and adolescents. Other extra-curricular activities include craftmaking, music, art, and environmental awareness through recreation. Continue an FSD project by spearheading an advertising campaign that will recruit new volunteers to serve as adult mentors for students ages 4-12, thus providing positive role models for marginalized and/or disabled children. Improve the level of education offered to working individuals and those who are otherwise excluded by giving capacity building courses in computer and English skills. Follow the progress of your students and support the scholarship program which allows marginalized students to enroll in classes. Develop ways to deliver resources to a community library for vulnerable children. Start a book drive, research funding sources, and/or create a book archive. Continue an FSD organic vegetable garden project that trains marginalized youth how to create a sustainable food source, offering hunger-relief, and a marketable skill for their future.

For more opportunities in youth and education in Argentina, visit our website or contact us directly.

Phone: (415) 283-4873

www.fsdinternational.org

Email: info@fsdinternational.org